Allegri brushes off Italy speculation while prioritising AC Milan's Champions League push

Gennaro Gattuso stepped away from the Italy managerial role on Friday following his teams penalty defeat to Bosnia in the World Cup play offs. This represents the third successive qualification failure for the four time winners, and FIGC president Giuseppe Gravina has also resigned.

Discussions at the press conference before Mondays Serie A fixture against Napoli centred heavily on Italys shortcomings and Allegri own position.

"As an Italian, Im deeply saddened by the failure to qualify, yet we should view it as a chance for development and adopt a long term strategy over the coming decade," Allegri remarked.

"Passing judgement or dictating actions feels inappropriate to me. Instead, the relevant authorities need to convene and review regulations, spanning youth programmes right up to the senior squad."

Allegri resumed his tenure at AC Milan last season, building on his prior Scudetto success there. During this return campaign, the club occupies second place in Serie A, trailing Inter Milan by six points while holding a one point edge over Napoli.

The 58 year old, who secured five Serie A crowns with Juventus, fielded enquiries about potentially ruling out a role with Italy in the present or further down the line.

"I embarked on this path with Milan a year ago, and currently our priority is to conclude the season strongly and secure Champions League football," Allegri stated.

"I havent considered it thus far. Im content at Milan and aspire to remain there for many years.

"Its been several years since I last competed in the Champions League, so should we earn qualification and I still be in charge at Milan, Id need to readjust to that level."

Allegri addressed follow up questions on his employment of conditional phrasing when discussing his Milan prospects.

"Life remains full of surprises, and one can never predict what lies ahead," Allegri replied, smiling. "Our initial aim is to reach the Champions League, after which we can reassess."

Finishing in the top four grants entry to the Champions League, and Milan maintain a nine point advantage over fifth placed Juventus with eight fixtures still to play.